Shane Adkins: Biography

Shane was inspired to learn the thumbpicking style of guitar during visits to his grandparents in Drakesboro, KY, where he met Mose Rager, a neighbor and thumbpicking pioneer. Mose had a tremendous influence on many guitarists to include Shane and guitar legends Merle Travis and Chet Atkins.

Over the years, Shane honed his music to create his own thumb and fingerstyle sound. He also began writing music with original lyrics and melodies. He writes historical songs that tell intriguing stories, funny songs full of laughs, and touching songs that tug at the heart strings. In January 2002, he performed one of his more light hearted originals, "Beans and Taters" on the Grand Ole Opry with Mike Snider. Shane has completed five albums that can be purchased locally, at www.cdbaby.com, and at his performance venues.

In 2003, Shane won the International "Home of the Legends" Thumbpicking Contest in Muhlenberg County, KY and in September 2005, he traveled to Winfield, KS and won the International Fingerstyle Guitar Championship.

Today, Shane lives in Hazel Green, AL with his wife Lisa and son Jim. He entertains as close as his own kitchen table, throughout the United States, and as far away as Gravelines, France. You will find his shows to be down to earth, filled with warm humor and solo traditional music. When Shane performs, he promotes thumb and fingerstyle guitar because he believes it is an american musical art form that should be preserved and shared. He conducts guitar workshops and serves as a judge in thumb and fingerstyle guitar contests.

Come on out the next time Shane is in your area. He would love to meet you!